2023 – Reports | SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
Health is more than just a one-dimensional measure of a person’s physical wellbeing. For a person to be truly healthy, it is not simply about being physically healthy, but also being mentally healthy, emotionally and financially stable, and socially connected. Health is a multifaceted concept that encompasses both what a person sees and what a person doesn’t see. In the academic field, for both students and teachers, health is a vital aspect of that helps with work productivity. For teachers, good health allows them to teach more effectively.
Health, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.” This definition emphasizes that health is not solely about the absence of illness; it encompasses every aspect of an individual’s life, including physical fitness, emotional stability, and social interactions. For students and educators alike, good health is crucial not only for personal well-being but also for fostering an effective learning environment. A healthy mind and body enhance concentration, productivity, and the capacity to absorb knowledge. Academic success can only be so successful with the help of good health and well-being.
In line with this, Isabela State University recognizes the relationship between good health and education and has committed to creating a smoke-free and supportive learning atmosphere for all its students and faculty. The university’s policies facilitate and promote well-being, and the university actively provides resources and programs that help to enhance health and wellness of its community members. Community fun runs are held monthly, and many health awareness seminars and programs help tackle the greater concerns about healthcare with regards to lack of knowledge or awareness and allows the students and faculty to be better equipped to handle their own health.
These community events are a joint effort between the university and the municipality to better integrate the resources of the university to achieve strengthened health of the community. School events are collaborations that include the community in participation, and especially regarding mental health or physical health does the university act as an important host to ushering positive change and increased health awareness within the community.
Isabela State University not only collaborates but openly supports the local community regarding health awareness. The bloodletting activity was done regularly to reinforce its commitment to both social well-being and good health. Beyond just policies and health programs, however, health education is an integral part of Isabela State University’s goals and focused on the growing population of the university’s students and faculty, sexual and reproductive health is also of utmost concern. Topics such as sexual education and reproductive health rights are integral parts of the health education and curriculum of the university. Isabela State University recognizes the need for comprehensive sex education for its student body which consists of young adults who are simply navigating their independence. Open discussions are fostered, which makes these topics less stigmatized and brings about awareness on potential health concerns.
Physical activity is another essential aspect of health that Isabela State University actively promotes. The university offers facilities, such as gyms and sports arenas, to encourage students and the community to engage in physical activities.
These facilities serve as venues for sports tournaments and festivals, contributing to the physical health and social well-being of participants. Mental health is equally critical in the overall health spectrum. And has been a primary focus for the university. Many events are organized to bring awareness to mental health programs that may be impeding social interaction or schoolwork behavior. Dedicated support groups have been created considering problems of mental health, such as the Peer Facilitators Union, and university-wide events to help bring awareness to the issues of mental health, such as with the Suicide Prevention Month, have helped students and faculty alike with these pressing issues.
In conclusion, Isabela State University stands at the forefront of promoting health and well-being within its community. By aligning its initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goal 3, the university aims to reduce maternal mortality, enhance individual and family wellness, and strengthen disease prevention efforts. The university’s commitment to providing comprehensive health resources and promoting sustainable health practices marks a significant step toward achieving broader goals of global health improvement. Through these transformative actions, Isabela State University not only fosters a healthier campus but also contributes to the well-being of the larger community.
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